NUT diet VS low carb

As part of my recent hydrostatic testing, I learned that my true resting metabolic rate for *my* body in its present condition is 1740 calories. I had consistently been eating 800ish, with 80+gm protein/40 gm carbs. 

Sure, eating 900 calories below baseline RMR daily is a good way to lose weight, but it is likely negatively impacting my ability to build muscle, which is the approach I'm taking to burn fat and rev up the metabolic engine in the long run. My workout days had even larger gaps because I didn't eat into my deficit there, either.

Since the test, I have increased to 1000-1200 calories per day (the higher end on workout days, lower on nonworkout days). I'm reaching 100+gm protein (but no more than 120 gms protein because of my lean body weight) and upped my carbs to about 60. My loss pattern (stair steps) appears to be remaining on target of 5 lbs per month so far and I'm not having carb cravings. My plan is to give it a month and see where it gets me, bu****ch carefully for signs of plateau and/or regain and alter accordingly. It's an imprecise science at best because I won't be repeating the hydrostatic test until sometime between April-June. Once I hit goal weight on the scale, I will have to further adjust to maintain, but I'll redo the testing to get the latest readings.

I will say it took a LOT of self talk to give myself permission to eat more than 800 calories. I am mindful to do this not through eating greater volume but through eating more frequently. I am putting something into my mouth constantly - either water or food, it feels.

One of the biggest things I have had to learn is that this is all under my control, and that my body WILL respond to my actions. Previously, with all of my diet attempts, I felt like my body would do whatever it pleased, no matter what I did. In the end it is all just one big science experiment.

You have received good from others here about options you have. I just wanted to provide you with my experience, which is based on the hydrostatic testing and is beginning to look a little different than the conventional wisdom because it is more customized for my body.

Good luck!

Laurie

My plan given to me was very similar, except that the 1200 calorie range would not be hit for several months.  It was recognized in the early months that the restriction is at full force and thus easy to take advantage of very low calories.  Month 1 under 600, month 2-3 under 800, then from there slowly added in calories until I went up to 1200... that happend by month 5.  I also did a lot of exercise to go with those calories.  For me, I tried low carb the first 2 months, but had a terrible time with low blood sugar.  Once I added in carbs and fiber it was smooth sailing from there and I had no problem making it to goal.  I stuck to high quality carbs- fruit, green leafy veggies, whole grain (very little though), etc.  If you feel that the low carb approach is your best chance at success I would not hesitate to follow that- just look for indications that it may not be a good fit such as low blood sugar, constipation, etc. 

I ditched the traditional, everything in moderation, 1200 calorie diet. I followed low carb, low calorie diet until goal. Wouldn't change a thing. Good luck to you!

my nut has me doing high protein low carbs, working for me

I haven't had my surgery yet, but since 12/9, I have been eating high protein, low carb foods and drinking at least 64 oz. of water a day. I don't worry too much about the fat content. I have been loosing steadily. I don't eat any fruit other than the fruit in Dannon Lite & Fit Greek Yogurt. I don't eat any bread, pasta, rice or potato. My nutritionist said that what I am doing is fine, but she did say that I could eat fruit and carbs if I wanted to. I chose to cut out carbs because they are a trigger for me and once I get started eating them, I have not control over myself...

My NUT gave me the 1200 diet also in our first and last meeting at one month out or so from surgery - no way I could have eaten the amount of food she was suggesting at that  time.  I nodded me at her and never met with her again.  I try to keep the calories under 800 and a high protein low carb diet.  Few bites of fruit added now for the fiber - if you like almond milk - use that!  You have to come up with a diet you can live with and what works for you .  

Good advice here - Good luck to you!